What's Happening!! Star Danielle Spencer Dies at 60 After Cancer Battle
Danielle Spencer, 'What's Happening!!' star, died at 60 in Richmond, Virginia, from cancer complications. She battled breast cancer since 2014 and faced other health issues.
Child Star From The '70s Dead At Age 60
Daily Caller
Danielle Spencer, child star of ‘What’s Happening,’ dies at 60
New York Daily News
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Overview
- Danielle Spencer, the child star known as Dee Thomas on 'What's Happening!!', passed away at 60. Her death was confirmed by co-star Haywood Nelson.
- Spencer passed away in a Richmond, Virginia hospital due to complications from cancer. She was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2014, undergoing a double mastectomy.
- In addition to cancer, Spencer faced other serious health issues, including emergency brain surgery in 2018. A GoFundMe campaign was launched to help cover her medical expenses.
- Her acting career was significantly impacted by a car crash during 'What's Happening!!' season two, which left her with spinal issues. The series was subsequently cancelled in 1979.
- After her acting career, Spencer pursued higher education, earning a doctoral degree in Veterinary Medicine in 1993. She worked as a veterinarian in Richmond, Virginia, until her passing.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover the story neutrally, presenting a factual and respectful obituary for Danielle Spencer. They focus on her acting career, particularly her iconic role as Dee, her later life as a veterinarian, and her long battle with health issues, without injecting editorial bias or loaded language.
"Spencer died after a yearslong battle with cancer."
CBS News"Danielle Spencer, who played the wisecracking and tattling little sister Dee Thomas on the 1970s sitcom “What’s Happening!!” has died at 60."
Associated Press"We have lost a daughter, sister, family member, 'What’s Happening' cast member, veterinarian animal rights proponent and healer, and cancer heroine."
USA TODAY"Danielle Spencer, who portrayed Raj’s sassy younger sister on the 1970s sitcom What’s Happening!! died Monday, her former co-star Haywood Nelson revealed on Instagram."
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FAQ
Danielle Spencer faced multiple serious health challenges including a car accident in 1977 which left her in a coma and caused spinal issues, breast cancer diagnosed in 2014 for which she had a double mastectomy, and emergency brain surgery in 2018. She ultimately died from cancer complications.
The 1977 car accident during the production of 'What's Happening!!' left Danielle Spencer in a coma for three weeks and caused her stepfather's death. The injuries profoundly impacted her health, leading to spinal problems and contributing to the cancellation of the series.
After her acting career, Danielle Spencer pursued higher education in veterinary medicine, earning a doctoral degree and working as a veterinarian in Richmond, Virginia until her death.
Danielle Spencer portrayed Dee Thomas, the sassy younger sister on 'What's Happening!!'. Co-star Haywood Nelson praised her courage in battling illness, and her brother described her as a friend, auntie, daughter, and protector who maintained positivity despite her struggles.
Yes, a GoFundMe campaign was launched to help cover Danielle Spencer's medical expenses during her health battles.
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